Savory Olive Bacon Cheese Bread: Delicious Homemade Recipe

Looking to elevate your bread game with a show-stopping loaf? This Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe is a flavor-packed adventure you don’t want to miss. Imagine a rustic, golden-crusted bread infused with the savory goodness of crumbled bacon, briny olives, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s a mouthwatering combination that’s perfect for snacking, serving with soups, or impressing your guests with a unique side dish.

This bread isn’t just about taste—it’s a whole experience. As you mix the dough and watch it rise, the anticipation builds for that first heavenly bite. The olives add a distinctive briny punch, the bacon brings smoky depth, and the cheese melts beautifully throughout, creating a loaf that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. And the best part? It’s beginner-friendly, so even if you’re new to baking bread, you can still achieve bakery-quality results in under 3 hours.

I first discovered the magic of this Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread at a potluck, where it vanished within minutes, leaving everyone asking for more. Now, it’s my go-to recipe for gatherings and cozy nights in. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this bread offers a gourmet experience that will have your kitchen smelling like a bakery in no time. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake your way to bread bliss!

Quick Benefits

• One-bowl mixing requires minimal kitchen equipment
• Ready in under 3 hours including rise time
• Customizable with your favorite cheese varieties
• Contains perfectly balanced protein from cheese and bacon

Why You’ll Love This Savory Olive Bacon Cheese Bread: Delicious Homemade Recipe Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor Combination: The savory olives, smoky bacon, and melty cheese create a flavor-packed loaf that stands out in every slice.
• Perfect for Various Occasions: Whether you need a hearty snack, a side dish, or a unique appetizer, this bread fits the bill.
• Easy One-Bowl Mixing: Minimal kitchen equipment needed, making it beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
• Customizable: Swap cheddar for your favorite cheese, or add in extras like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for a personalized touch.
• Make-Ahead Option: Freeze slices for up to 3 months, or enjoy incredible toast the next day.
• Balanced Protein: With cheese and bacon, this bread offers a well-rounded protein source.
• Stays Fresh: Keeps well for up to 3 days at room temperature, or freeze and toast for longer storage.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Pair with soup, create gourmet grilled cheese, or serve as a unique appetizer with cured meats and olives.
• Baking Tips: Handy tips like adjusting dough consistency, toasting herbs for depth, and incorporating mix-ins evenly for the best results.
• Gourmet Flavor Made Simple: Achieve a gourmet taste with basic ingredients and straightforward steps.

Ingredients for Savory Olive Bacon Cheese Bread: Delicious Homemade Recipe

• 1/2 cup pitted green or Kalamata olives, roughly chopped
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary

Pro Tips for Savory Olive Bacon Cheese Bread: Delicious Homemade Recipe

To ensure a successful bake of your olive, bacon, and cheese bread, make sure to chop your olives and bacon into small pieces for even distribution throughout the loaf. This step helps infuse every bite with the savory flavors of the ingredients. Additionally, consider toasting dried herbs in a dry skillet before adding them to the dough to deepen their flavor profile and enhance the overall taste of the bread.

When incorporating the cheese into the dough, use room temperature cheese for better integration. Cold cheese straight from the refrigerator can be challenging to mix evenly. By having it at room temperature, the cheese will melt and distribute more smoothly throughout the dough, resulting in a beautifully cheesy and flavorful loaf. Don’t forget, you can also customize this recipe by substituting cheddar with your favorite melting cheese, such as Gouda, mozzarella, or Gruyere, for a unique and delicious twist.

How to Make Savory Olive Bacon Cheese Bread: Delicious Homemade Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

In a large bowl, mix together flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in lukewarm water and olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.

Step 2: Step 02

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding extra flour if needed to reduce stickiness.

Step 3: Step 03

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm location for approximately 1 hour or until it doubles in volume.

Step 4: Step 04

After the dough has risen, deflate it and gently incorporate olives, bacon, cheese, and rosemary (optional) by kneading until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Step 05

Form the dough into a loaf and transfer it to a greased loaf pan or shape it into a rustic form on a baking sheet. Cover and allow it to rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 6: Step 06

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 7: Step 07

Use a beaten egg to brush the top of the dough for a golden, shiny crust.

Step 8: Step 08

Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and the crust is golden brown.

Step 9: Step 09

Cool the bread on a wire rack before slicing.

Storage Tips

Once your olive, bacon, and cheese bread is baked and cooled, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. You can keep the bread at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the cooled bread and freeze individual portions with parchment paper between slices. This method allows you to thaw only what you need for immediate enjoyment. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen slices, simply reheat them directly in the toaster for the best texture.

When serving the olive, bacon, and cheese bread, consider various delicious options. Warm slices pair wonderfully with a hearty vegetable soup or stew where the bread can soak up the flavorful broth. For an elegant appetizer, cut the bread into small cubes, lightly toast them, and serve with additional olives and a selection of cured meats. Additionally, the bread makes exceptional grilled cheese sandwiches when sliced and toasted with extra cheese melted between the slices. These storage and serving tips will help you make the most of this flavorful bread creation.

Ingredient Substitutions

For cheese variations, feel free to swap the shredded cheddar with cheeses like Gouda, mozzarella, or Gruyere to create a new and unique flavor profile. These cheeses also melt beautifully and complement the savory olives and bacon in the bread.

If fresh rosemary is not available, you can use dried rosemary as a substitute or omit it altogether if you prefer. The rosemary adds a lovely aromatic touch, but the bread will still be delicious without it.

To make prep easier, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before adding the olives, bacon, and cheese. This make-ahead option allows for a more convenient baking schedule while still achieving the same tasty results.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving presentation of this delicious olive, bacon, and cheese bread, consider slicing it into thin pieces and toasting them lightly. Arrange the toasted slices on a platter with additional olives, cured meats, and a variety of cheeses for a gourmet charcuterie board. This not only showcases the bread’s flavors but also allows guests to create their own customized bites with a range of complementary ingredients.

For a cozy and comforting meal idea, try serving warm slices of the olive, bacon, and cheese bread alongside a rich and hearty French onion soup. The bread’s savory profile and cheesy goodness make it a perfect companion for dipping into the flavorful broth. Garnish the soup with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a complete and satisfying dining experience that will delight your taste buds.

FAQs for Savory Olive Bacon Cheese Bread: Delicious Homemade Recipe

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute cheddar with your favorite melting cheese such as Gouda, mozzarella, or Gruyere for a unique flavor profile.

Is fresh rosemary necessary for this bread, or can I use dried rosemary?

Fresh rosemary is optional but adds an aromatic touch. You can also use dried rosemary or skip it entirely if preferred.

Can I prepare the dough the night before and bake it the next day?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. Allow it to return to room temperature before kneading in the additional ingredients.

What are the indicators that the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and the crust has turned a golden-brown color. You can also use a thermometer – the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).

Conclusion

As you embark on creating this delightful Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe, remember that the heart of baking lies in the joy of experimenting and sharing delicious creations with loved ones. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic combination of olives, bacon, and cheese or venture into new flavor territories, the result will always be a warm, savory loaf that brings smiles to the table.

Embrace the process of bread-making, from the first mix of ingredients to the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes to the satisfying moment when you slice into the finished loaf. Share this bread with family and friends, and watch as it becomes a cherished recipe in your repertoire. Remember, the essence of cooking is not just in the ingredients and techniques but in the memories and connections you create with each dish you prepare. So, go ahead, bake this Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread Recipe with love and savor every bite of its delicious goodness. Happy baking!